Built to meet the requirements of the U.S. Air Force and allies for the full spectrum of missions, the combat-ready KC-46 Pegasus air refueling plane delivers proven multi-mission capabilities today, and continues to evolve to meet the needs of tomorrow.
The KC-46A tanker is approved by the U.S. Air Force for global deployments, including combat operations. With more in service globally than any tanker except the Boeing-built KC-135, the KC-46A is delivering fuel, data and multi-mission capability for the U.S. and allies around the globe.
The KC-46A delivers more fuel at all ranges and from shorter runways than the KC-135 aircraft it’s replacing — while utilizing less ramp space than competing tankers — ensuring mission reach from forward and austere airfields.
Currently, KC-46A air refueling receiver certifications include: AV-8B, B-1, B-2, B-52, C-5, C-17, C-130, C-135, CV-22, E-3, E-8, EA-18, F-15, F-16, F/A-18, F-22, F-35, KC-10, KC-46, KC-135, P-8A and V-22.
The combat-readiness and agile-combat-capable design of the KC-46A enables more booms in the air throughout the operational theater, making it the ideal aircraft for refueling missions.
As a connectivity hub at the tactical edge, the KC-46A provides data as well as fuel to the joint force.
Armed with data links and Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) integration, the Pegasus tanker connects multi-domain warfighters, providing tactical situational awareness and real-time information superiority.
As the needs of the mission evolve, the KC-46A can efficiently integrate new capabilities and advanced technology thanks to its in-line production.
The combat-ready KC-46A features layers of defensive countermeasures to detect, avoid, defeat and survive threats.
The KC-46A is the only tanker to meet the stringent Federal Aviation Administration and U.S. Air Force airworthiness and performance requirements. It is operationally supporting the highest-priority missions, including providing presidential support, and performing real-world operations.
In addition, the proven boom and hose-and-drogue systems are capable of refueling all U.S., allied and coalition aircraft compatible with international aerial refueling procedures.
With its track record of success, the KC-46A is proven for today’s missions.
The KC-46A can convert between cargo, passenger and aeromedical evacuation modes in just two hours — with emergency oxygen and electrical power for medevac support included — and is compatible with all U.S. Air Force loaders.
With a large cargo door and cargo rollers, the KC-46A is adaptable to rapid cargo loading and mission versatility.
When compared to the KC-135 it holds:
Built as a tanker from day one, the KC-46A has a longer lifespan and a reduction in the airframe corrosion that can occur in post-production modification. Furthermore, fleet commonality and interoperability leverages economy of scale for the U.S. Air Force and allies.
The operating cost of four KC-46A tankers is the same as just three larger refuelers, so operators can have more booms in the air and bring more fuel to the fight.
Supported by a robust KC-46 supply chain that includes more than 650 American businesses and 37,000 American workers throughout more than 40 U.S. states, the current production line in Everett, WA, is delivering mission-ready aircraft today.
Ultimately, the in-production KC-46A has lower acquisition, operations and sustainment costs than any existing widebody aerial refueler and represents the best value over its total lifecycle.
Width | 156 ft 1 in (47.5 m) | Length | 165 ft 10 in (50.5 m) |
Height | 52 ft 10 in (16.1 m) | Engines | Two Pratt & Whitney PW 4062 with 62,000 lbf (289.13 kN) thrust |
Maximum Takeoff Weight | 415,000 lbs (188,241 kg) | Maximum Landing Weight | 310,000 lbs (140,614 kg) |
Fuel Capacity | 212,299 lbs (96,265 kg) | Maximum Air Speed | 0.86 Mach (650 mph) |